MSU takes all concerns of sexual abuse very seriously. Given that Rick Butler is not affiliated with MSU in any way and has never coached at MSU, our ability to address the concerns of sexual abuse involving Rick Butler are limited. Like many other universities, MSU recruits high school players through AAU affiliated programs across the country; however, MSU has not proactively recruited players from Rick Butler’s program in the past few years.

We recognize that reporting takes courage and we appreciate groups like Champion Women raising awareness of this issue. We support efforts to eradicate sexual abuse and increase safety in youth sports programs and hope that the reporting of these concerns will prompt reflection and action by youth programs.

-John Engler, MSU Interim President